LYNNWOOD — Next Step Pregnancy Services has received the 2026 Best in the PNW Silver Award for Best Women’s Clinic, recognizing its longstanding commitment to supporting women, young people, and families throughout the North End.
With roots dating back to 1998, the organization has spent nearly three decades providing compassionate care, practical resources, and encouragement to individuals navigating unexpected pregnancies and reproductive health challenges. Originally established as Angelorum Pregnancy Services in Seattle’s Lake City neighborhood, the organization became Lynnwood’s Next Step Pregnancy Services in 2010. Today, it serves thousands of clients and client families annually offering free services regardless of income or ZIP code.
“We are honored to receive this recognition from our community,” says Heather Vasquez, Director of Next Step Pregnancy Services. “For nearly three decades, our mission has been to ensure women and families have access to compassionate care, practical resources, and support when they need it most. Whether providing pregnancy testing, early ultrasounds, STI testing and treatment, baby supplies, or reproductive loss grief support, we want everyone who walks through our doors to feel welcomed, valued, and supported.”
In addition to the reader-voted award, Next Step has maintained accreditation through the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) since 2023, reflecting its commitment to established healthcare standards and quality improvement. Together, these recognitions highlight the organization’s dedication to serving its community.
Making a Meaningful Difference: In 2025, Next Step performed more than 350 pregnancy tests, provided more than 275 early obstetric ultrasounds, and supported clients through more than 600 medical appointments—all at no cost no matter the circumstances. The organization also distributed more than 50 reproductive loss support kits, alongside diapers, wipes, and essential baby and maternity supplies. As community needs evolve, Next Step is expanding its educational programs, including FEMM menstrual health education for younger clients, with future plans to emphasize body literacy and the important roles of young men and fathers in healthy families. The organization also serves a culturally diverse population, offering language support to Spanish-, Ukrainian-, Russian-, Polish-, French-, and Berber-speaking clients.Nearly three decades after its founding vision took shape, Next Step remains committed to providing accessible care, trusted referrals, and practical assistance to individuals and families facing important life decisions. Its mission continues to affirm the intrinsic value of both mother and child while offering hope, encouragement, and compassionate support.
About Next Step Pregnancy Services: Next Step Pregnancy Services is an independent organization based in Lynnwood, Washington, serving women, young people, and families throughout the North End. Clients can expect medical excellence, professionalism, and compassion in a non-judgemental atmosphere. Next Step does not profit off of a woman’s decision but meets women where they are and serves . All services are free, and everyone is welcome.
Source: Next Step Pregnancy Services
Author: Kienan Briscoe
